Inauguration Day
- Anabeth Fuller
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
On Friday, for the final time of the 81st session, the Citizens took to the House and Senate floors, this time in the State Capitol. Here, the Senators and Representatives debated special ordered House and Senate bills before coming together for our joint session of the Bluebonnet Girls State Legislature to inaugurate the newly elected state officials.
After a life changing week of learning, legislating, and sisterhood, the time has come for the Citizens to leave their 51st state. They gathered once more as Chloe Luo of City M, addressed her citizens for the first time as Governor.
In her closing remarks, Luo noted that "like many, I came into this week not thinking I’d be running for any state position — just here to have some fun and make new friends. Wow, was I wrong." She also noted that upon arrival someone told her, 'Go big or go home' and she took the advice to heart. "I took that advice and RAN. If you're coming to Texas Girls State, the one thing that you must make sure that you do is leave with no regrets."
The session would not have been possible if not for the 100+ women that came together from across this state and country to make Girls State a reality. Our staff is comprised entirely of unpaid volunteers who have donated their time, energy, and passion for government to continually making TBGS the best that it can be. We are so grateful to all of them for their dedication to this program, and we know that you've enjoyed working with them.
After announcing our Outstanding Citizens, Director Lori Swann announced the delegates to Girls Nation. This year Bluebonnet Girls State will send Katherine Ramsey from City F and Lola Selberg from City H to represent TBGS later this summer at our Nation’s Capital. Kate Fambrough from City C and Snehal Srishti from City D will serve as alternates.
As closing ceremony concluded with a final chorus of the Big 3, hugs broke out among the Citizens and staff, tears were wiped away, and smiles shone through as we were reminded how our lives have been forever changed.
We'd like to thank each member of the TBGS 2025 staff, every ALA member that works to make Girls State happen, TLU, all our guest speakers, and each citizen from the 81st session.
Citizens, as you move forward in the world know that there are thousands of women who went to Texas Bluebonnet Girls State that are with you. You have all the tools you need to go out into your communities, state, and the world to make a difference. You will be strong, and you will be great because you're from Texas Girls State.
Congratulations to the now-former citizens of the 81st Bluebonnet session! Whether you ran for an elected position, spent hours crafting legislation, or assisted in the campaigns of others, your efforts left their mark on the 51st state. We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see the wonderful things you accomplish in the future as an alumnus of TBGS. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram to stay connected to the 51st state!